THE verdict from union chiefs was unanimous - the one-day council workers' strike was a "solid success".

In Gwent, most council facilities remained closed as around 90 per cent of the workforce stayed away.

The strike, the first of its kind since the 1979 winter of discontent, was called by unions demanding a 6 per cent pay rise, and angry that only 3 per cent is being offered.

Pickets, which by law are restricted to six people each, appeared outside all major council sites, and schools, refuse collection, libraries and all other non-essential services were disrupted.

Workers spent the morning leafleting and explaining their case to shoppers in John Frost Square before going to a rally in Cardiff.

Dave Galligan, a full- time UNISON official in Newport, said: "We're not looking for a summer of discontent, we are looking for a fair wage. We've had a lot of support from people who think our members do a good job and should be paid fairly.

"Management have to come back to the negotiating table. At the moment they will not talk to us and they have refused ACAS talks.

"If that continues there will be another strike, early in August, and a further campaign is mapped out. I am hoping that none of it will be necessary and that talks start again immediately and we get a fair pay offer. If we did not act now the management would think that paying 3 per cent is fair, I think it's an insult."

The GMB were also in the square to explain their position. Lyndon Clarke, of the union which represents refuse collectors and other council employees, said: "We have been out picketing all the depots since 5.30am. Only about 50 people have crossed the lines, and hardly any work has been done as a result. We have been really pleased with the level of support."

Paul Buller, another GMB official, said: "The public have been very positive towards us. We have been careful to make sure the most vulnerable have not been put at risk. We have continued services like meals on wheels, child protection, and even funerals at our cemeteries are going ahead.

"Hopefully this action will force management to negotiate."

*PICTURED: Gwyn Davies, aged seven, joins the piccket line at County Hall, Croesyceiliog.